Jharkhand PSC Exam Row: ED Launches Money Laundering Probe, Three Members Resign

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has initiated a probe into alleged irregularities in the conduct of multiple recruitment examinations in Jharkhand, particularly the JSSC-CGL (Jharkhand General Graduate Level Combined Competitive Examination). Officials said on Monday that the central agency has taken cognisance of a First Information Report (FIR) filed by the state police's Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and other complaints, and has begun an inquiry under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The development comes amid a 16-day-long agitation by students who have been demanding a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the alleged irregularities. The students have refused to call off their stir and are set to march towards the State Assembly on August 20, even though the government said it has accepted "98% of the demands".

The Jharkhand Public Service Commission (JPSC), which is at the centre of the turmoil, saw a major shake-up on Sunday when all three members — Ajeeta Bhattacharya, Anima Hansda and Jamal Ahmad — resigned. This came after the Jharkhand CID summoned them for questioning over allegations of irregularities, including paper leaks.

The ED's intervention brings a financial dimension to the case. Under the PMLA, the agency will investigate whether any proceeds of crime were generated from the alleged malpractices and whether they were laundered. The ED has the power to attach properties and assets acquired through the proceeds of crime, making the probe a significant escalation in the matter.

The JPSC is responsible for conducting recruitment examinations for various state government departments. The CGL examination is one of the most significant, and allegations of irregularities have raised questions about the transparency and integrity of the recruitment process. Students have been demanding a fair re-examination and action against those responsible.

The state government has yet to formally respond to the ED probe. However, its earlier assertion that it has accepted most of the students' demands indicates an attempt to resolve the crisis through dialogue. The students, however, maintain that only a CBI investigation will satisfy their demand for a transparent and impartial inquiry.

The resignations of the three JPSC members have added to the pressure on the state administration. With the ED now involved, the matter has taken a legal turn that could have wider implications for the conduct of public examinations in Jharkhand. The coming weeks will be crucial as both the probe and the student agitation continue to unfold.